Theresa Lynn Johnston

1951 - 2020

Theresa Lynn Johnston

Salem/Canby - Theresa 'Teri' Lynn

(Steenson) Johnston

May 23, 1951 - December 8, 2020

Teri, Theresa Lynn, Sis, Ma, Momma, Aunt Teri, Tia, Moo-Ma, Tia-Pants, Gramma, Teacher, Miss Teri, Mrs. J, Teacher Teri and Sunshinio were some of Teri's nicknames. Teri taught for about 35 years at the kindergarten, first grade and second grade levels. She was passionate about everything she did in life, especially teaching, and was willing to go toe-to-toe with any person or process that didn't do what was best for kids.

Being a passionate and opinionated person Teri had her share of challenges and conflicts. She was also a prayer warrior and prayed whole-heartedly for people with whom she shared peace and love as well as those with whom she shared conflict.

Teri was expressive, creative and caring. She loved teaching art, being silly, exploring science concepts and bringing children to the joy of reading. She loved to read books to others and was consistent in her actions to make sure kids, and adults close to her, had enough information, materials and support to help them blossom and grow in life. She delighted in all kids regardless of their social status, skill levels or abilities. Teri made a visit to the home of every student she taught to get to know them and their families well enough so that she could serve them better as their teacher.

Teri was called to teach and called to God at age 6. She started her volunteering at age 9 helping younger students at Sunday school. Her service included time as a Camp Counselor, Campfire Leader, 4-H Leader, leading summer park activities and helping at numerous school events.

Teri's heroes were many. She worked to model her life after women who loved both God and service to others. These women included her dear Bible study friends, her wonderful walking partner, her Aunts Polly and Nell, her neighbor Betty Stewart and her first-grade teacher Jesse Rains.

Teri's heart was full of love for her husband, daughter, grand-kids, family and extended family. She was a devoted wife, loving mom, adoring Gramma and caring aunt and friend. She would leap at the chance to help and support any in her circle. She lived life to its fullest in everything she did and gave 110% plus in her relationships and volunteer activities.

For the last 20 years or so Teri dealt with 3 bouts of cancer with grace, joy and appreciation. She was thankful for every breath and continually reminded those around her to "choose joy". Teri was a doer and a coordinator and loved to set up trips, events and learning times for as many kids as possible. She took more than one group of kids on extensive and fact filled trips retracing the Oregon Trail.

Teri has a huge belief and faith in God and his impact, blessings and love towards us in this world. She looked forward to having a heavenly body that could freely dance, run, jump and play.

Teri loved being part of the Canby Oregon Macksburg Lutheran Church family. She appreciated the focus of this church on serving both local and broader worldwide communities. If you would like to make any donations in Teri's memory, please consider this church by going to macksburglutheran.org/giving-portal.

Thanks Teri for being part of our lives and wishing you continuing joy, fun, grace and jumping! We love you. Amen

Arrangements by City View Funeral Home.